At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Graduate Academy to kickstart your career in AI, Software Engineering, and Cloud Computing.
- Company: Reply is a leader in digital solutions, specialising in AI, big data, and cloud services.
- Benefits: Enjoy structured training, certifications, and mentoring while working on exciting client projects.
- Other info: This role is based in Manchester, starting January 2026, with opportunities for government security clearance.
- Why this job: Fast-track your career with hands-on experience and the chance to specialise in cutting-edge technologies.
- Qualifications: A 2.1 or higher degree in IT, Computer Science, or a related field is required.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Job Description
Graduate AI & Software Engineer
About Cortex Reply:
Reply specialises in the design and implementation of solutions based on new communication channels and digital media. As a network of highly specialised companies, Reply defines and develops business models enabled by the new models of AI, big data, cloud computing, digital media and the internet of things. Reply delivers consulting, system integration and digital services to organisations across the telecom and media; industry and services; banking and insurance; and public sectors.
Role overview:
Our technical Graduate Academy for 2025/2026 is an amazing opportunity to fast-track your career in Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Software Engineering and Cloud Computing. You will be part of a small group of graduates who will enjoy a structured programme of training that will arm you with the knowledge, experience and client exposure needed to pursue a career in multiple areas. Throughout this programme, we'll offer you the opportunity to gain knowledge in cloud fundamentals allowing you to complete key certifications in AWS (Cloud Practitioner, Solutions Architect Associate, Machine Learning Specialty) or as a HashiCorp Terraform Associate. Over your first three months you will also receive training and mentoring in the following areas: Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Data Engineering; Cloud Services in AWS, Azure & GCP; V irtualisation, Containerisation, Container Orchestration and Serverless. In addition, you'll learn Software Engineering tooling and processes (Git, branching strategies, CI/CD) coupled with the fundamentals of Observability, Networking & Security. You'll develop a deep understanding of Infrastructure and Cloud Automation, Secrets handling, Databases and Cloud Operational Excellence. During this period, you will also become UK govt security cleared to enable you to work in the Public Sector. This is a Manchester-based role starting in January 2026.
Responsibilities:
- Support our Cortex project teams on client projects working alongside top consultants from our technical and delivery disciplines
- Help deliver cloud in some of the world's largest and most complex organisations
- You will spend significant time working in our Applied AI Business Unit and may choose to specialise in one or more areas of AI/ML & Software Engineering
- Over time, you will become a consultant and will have the opportunity to continue progressing within Applied AI or focus on areas such as DevOps, Cloud Engineering/Architecture or Cyber Security
About the candidate:
- A Bachelor's degree (2.1 or higher) is required in IT, Computer Science or in a Technology-related field
- A broad interest in pursuing an AI/ML or Software Engineering type role
- Keen interest in consulting and client-facing project work across multiple sectors with the ability to adapt quickly to different technical environments
- Excellent communication skills and an ability to communicate with impact as a consultant
Reply is an Equal Opportunities Employer and committed to embracing diversity in the workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type regardless of age, sexual orientation, gender, identity, pregnancy, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, disability, medical history, skin colour, marital status or parental status or any other characteristic protected by the Law.
Reply is committed to making sure that our selection methods are fair to everyone. To help you during the recruitment process, please let us know of any Reasonable Adjustments you may need.
Graduate AI & Software Engineer - Reply in Manchester employer: Reply
At Reply, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our vibrant culture encourages continuous learning and professional growth, with diverse projects that challenge and inspire our team members. Located in a thriving tech hub, we provide unique opportunities to work with cutting-edge technologies while enjoying a supportive atmosphere that values creativity and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate AI & Software Engineer - Reply in Manchester
✨Join Local Tech Meetups
Get out there and mingle with fellow developers by joining local tech meetups. It’s a fantastic way to meet people who might be working at Reply or know someone who does. Plus, you can pick up some trendy tech skills and trends while you're at it!
✨Contribute to Open Source Projects
Show off your coding chops by jumping into open-source projects. Not only does this give you practical experience, but it also gets you noticed in the dev community. You'll create a killer portfolio that speaks volumes about your skills to Reply.
✨Tap into Online Developer Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online developer communities like GitHub, Stack Overflow, and even Reddit. Participate in discussions, share your projects, and build your visibility. We can often find opportunities through these channels that can lead to a full-time gig at companies like Reply.
✨Explore Job Boards Specifically for Tech Roles
Keep your eyes peeled on job boards that focus on tech roles. Sites like TechCareers or Stack Overflow Jobs can often have listings for companies like Reply that might not show up on broader job sites. Make it a habit to check these regularly, and don’t hesitate to apply directly through our website!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate AI & Software Engineer - Reply in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your coding skills:When applying for a software engineering role, it's super important to showcase your coding skills. Make sure your CV includes your tech stack, any relevant programming languages you’re comfortable with, and examples of projects you've worked on. If you have a GitHub profile, link it up! We love to see code in action.
Tailor your portfolio:For a full-time role, we’d expect to see some solid examples of your work in your portfolio. Make sure to include at least two or three projects that highlight your problem-solving skills and your ability to work with different technologies. Focus on the projects that are most relevant to the position at Reply.
Craft a killer cover letter:Your cover letter is your chance to stand out—make it personal! Explain why you want to work at Reply and how your skills align with the role. Show us your passion for software development. We dig enthusiastic candidates who understand the value of collaboration and continuous learning!
Be clear and concise:When it comes to writing your CV and cover letter, clarity is key. Avoid jargon that could confuse us and stick to simple, direct language. Highlight your achievements with quantifiable results where possible, and keep everything easy to read. A well-organised application goes a long way!
How to prepare for a job interview at Reply
✨Brush Up on Your Coding Skills
For a full-time software engineering role, it's crucial that we stay sharp with our coding abilities. Expect technical questions that might involve solving problems on the spot or discussing algorithms. Practise on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank to get comfortable with the types of questions that often come up.
✨Know Your Tools and Frameworks
Make sure we’re well-acquainted with the tools and technologies listed in the job description. Familiarise ourselves with any specific frameworks or programming languages mentioned. If Reply uses React or Node.js, for instance, be ready to discuss how we’ve used them in previous projects or coursework.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Bring along a portfolio that highlights our best work. This could be code samples, GitHub repositories, or any side projects we’ve built. Make sure we can talk through our thought process for each project, especially the challenges we faced and how we solved them—this shows our problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
While technical skills are key, full-time positions also require cultural fit. Be ready to discuss our previous experiences and how we handle teamwork, conflict, and deadlines. Brush up on the STAR method—Situation, Task, Action, Result—to clearly articulate our past experiences when discussing how we've contributed to a team.
